Dr. Katie New serves as Clinical Director at Bloom, where she leads Bloom University and oversees the implementation and coordination of therapeutic services and programs. In this role, she supports the development of foster parents and child welfare professionals, ensuring clinical fidelity to trauma-informed care models. She holds a Doctorate of Education in Leadership and Learning in Organizations from Vanderbilt University and a Master of Social Work with a focus on children, adolescents, and families from the University of Alabama. With a deep commitment to the well-being of youth impacted by trauma, abuse, and neglect, she champions programs that foster healing and resilience for Georgia’s children.

Michaela has extensive experience in various leadership roles, where she focused on creating trauma-informed, healing-centered environments for children and families facing challenges such as homelessness, food insecurity, and mental health issues. She has also led the development and launch of successful programs designed to support children in foster care, ensuring they receive the resources and care they need.

In addition to her directorial work, Michaela brings over six years of experience as a consultant, providing expertise to both local and national child welfare organizations. Her contributions include speaking at conferences, writing for publications, and conducting needs assessments aimed at improving services for vulnerable populations.

In addition to Michaela's professional expertise, she brings extensive lived experience in child welfare - having spent nine years in foster care herself. She is committed to improving systems to better serve children and families.

Based in Atlanta with her husband and cat, Nala, Michaela enjoys weight training, Netflix, and spending time with loved ones.

Discover how the Annie E. Casey Foundation is shining a light on the challenges youth face when aging out of foster care—and the bold solutions that can change their future.